 "Some OnePlus 5 devices are suffering from a severe \"jelly screen\" effect, OnePlus claims this is normal")
The OnePlus 5 is courting controversy after controversy since the launch of its flagship smartphone on 22 June. As usual, the response from the company has been less than ideal. The latest issue involves the screen, which, by the way, is the exact same unit that was on the previous two phones. A number of users claim to be facing an issue that they’re describing as a “jelly” screen effect. When scrolling vertically, the image on the screen apparently contracts and expands, creating the “jelly” effect. It’s hard to describe without a visual, so this video by ‘Little Zed’ on Youtube should be exactly what we need:
A number of users on Reddit have reported the issue, as well as reviewers for The Verge and PhoneArena. Our own review unit appears to be fine. Judging by the responses on various forums online, the issue isn’t widespread, but is definitely an issue on affected devices. OnePlus’ reaction is as obtuse and non-committal as ever. This is the statement in its entirety: “The OnePlus 5 uses the same level of high-quality components as all OnePlus devices, including the AMOLED display. We’ve received feedback from a small number of users saying that at times they notice a subtle visual effect when scrolling. This is natural and there’s no variance in screens between devices.”
Given OnePlus’ reactions in the past, we’re inclined to side with affected users. As Forbes points out, the statement from OnePlus implies that the issue will not be covered under warranty. This means that affected users have no recourse but to hope that the “jelly” screen effect is a software issue rather than a hardware one. Some users are speculating that the issue is because the screen on some devices has been installed upside down. if that’s the case, this is definitely a hardware issue. Since the device only just launched, the one consolation for users is that they can probably get devices replaced within the 15-day free replacement window that the company offers. Of course, there’s no guarantee that the replacement will be fully functional either. The “jelly” screen issue is just the latest in a long list of controversies surround the OnePlus 5. These issues include benchmark rigging, a sub-par camera and design issues. Sadly enough, the device itself isn’t actually that bad for the price. It’s OnePlus’ handling of the messaging surrounding the device that’s getting it into trouble.
